Advancing Neighborhood Sustainability

EcoDistrict Index Update

In 2014, we selected an initial set of 15 indicators to track progress in 8 performance areas, set targets, and collected baseline data (mostly from 2013). These indicators became the EcoDistrict Index (more background on the Index here). At the close of 2015, we conducted our first update and can start to see how the neighborhood is changing and how we are succeeding or failing in moving towards our goals. The table below gives a summary of progress towards each target.

In just 2 years, we have seen dramatic progress in a few areas. The Capitol Hill Farmers Market is going gangbusters. They are almost a quarter of the way towards doubling both all shoppers and specifically shoppers using EBT and WIC through their Fresh Bucks program.

Our transportation system is also shifting swiftly towards more walking and biking and away from driving (our post dedicated to these exciting transportation changes can be found here).

At the other end of the spectrum, Capitol Hill is backsliding when it comes to recycling and composting. Already the problem child neighborhood of Seattle waste diversion, people here seem to be sending more and more stuff to the landfill.

The top line information for each of these indicators just scratches the surface. In future posts we will delve deep into specific indicators to shed more light on the neighborhood changes they reflect, and illuminate opportunities to capitalize on success, pay more attention to neglected areas, and recalibrate poorly performing strategies.